Publishing Your Book

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Book Design

Today's technology has bound traditional book design to streamlined production methods, infusing the field of book publishing with exciting new possibilities.

Developing a truly readable book is the primary goal of good book design. The way it feels in the hand, and its size and weight, all contribute to how content is presented to the reader. Creating a readable book means paying close attention to the standards of good page design, including font selection, typographic controls, proportion, white space, consistency, flow, and decoration. Combining the effects of these elements helps capture the energy and spirit of the author so the book feels personal to your reader. Each page receives careful attention. It isn't as easy as it might sound! In fact, many of the best designs are intentionally so subtle that the reader may not even notice the design. But that's the point. We want readers to focus first and foremost on reading.

Books are initially judged by their covers. We invest serious creativity in a solid cover design that enhances the overall look and feel of your book, captures audience interest, stands out, and maintains the integrity of your message.

In today's marketplace, where anyone can go online and create a book, good design is more critical than ever. How do you have a professional-looking book that distributors and booksellers will handle? How do you make your book stand out? How do you entice the customer to pick it up and want to read it? First, good design.

The design must be as unique as your book. When people look through the books I've designed, they comment, what an interesting variety; yes, that's what design is about—designing for the myriad unique presentations and content. Thoughtful, creative, careful design comes from experience with many types of books, client collaborations, the tools of design and, most importantly, bringing together you, your content, spirit, delivery, and audience into one "whole" presentation.

Does the particular designer matter? Emphatically, Yes! Design is more than just a function of putting the book into production with some basic skills. It takes years of experience to do it well. And personal attention can't be underestimated in making the process and product a successful and rewarding experience for you.

Virtually all of my clients are referred by someone. That speaks volumes about the community of authors and publishers highlighted in the portfolio. And it speaks to their experience with me and my work.

Spring Book Design has the most wonderful, interesting clients. Come join us!

"I attended a book signing at the Owatonna bookstore last Thursday. A couple of people stopped by to share some fascinating stories about their ancestors. One woman remarked on how the book design is so easy on the eyes; she is elderly but can read it without eye strain. I remember you talking about that on our first visit when discussing page size, fonts, etc. It probably would never have occurred to me, but people are noticing. Kudos for your design work. . . . Everyone who sees it seems to be impressed, and I credit your design work for that. Thanks again for taking the manuscript and making a special book out of it." —Mike Wolesky, We Lack for Nothing Now: The Czech Settlement of Steele County, Minnesota